1:15 pm, December 15, 2011
IF the pundits are right, the economic difficulties surrounding the car industry are only set to deepen in the next 12 months.
However, Car Dealer has done its bit to help dealers find their lost profits, by hosting a unique event showing them how they can make more money.
Yesterday saw dealers from across the country come together at Gaydon’s Heritage Motor Centre to listen to a whole range of industry experts at Car Dealer’s Profit Clinic. Delegates heard from a variety of speakers who gave them advice on the products and services they could be using to make their businesses better.
Headlining the event was Car Care Plan who gave delegates insights in how the market is changing and in turn how dealers need to adapt their upselling processes with a greater focus on long-term products for customers.
The firm’s chief executive and Car Dealer columnist Tim Heavisides also exclusively announced to delegates a brand new product. ‘Cosmetic Warranty’ will keep cars looking showroom fresh for longer, and will be launched next year.
Changing consumer habits and how dealers must keep pace with a tidal wave of change was the subject of Contact Advantage’s presentation, while Winn Solicitors spoke about the advantages of offering accident management to customers and how it can improve business and keep customers happy.
Audio and video specialist Armour Automotive was on hand to give dealers top advice on how to make the most of offering state-of-the-art Bluetooth equipment to customers, and how to make a decent profit from the sale of such equipment.
Meanwhile Fourmative showed dealers why customers in their droves are voting with their feet and opting to do their business with independents, rather than big brands. Advice on how to retain the customer through effective customer management while still giving a sense of trustworthiness was also given.
Knowing the best ways to use search and capture customers on the internet were the top tips from search engine giant Google, while Motor Codes’ managing director Chris Mason was also present giving best practice advice on the benefits of consumer-led marketing with its Garage Finder service.
‘Our Profit Clinic was an overwhelming success,’ said Car Dealer’s editorial director James Baggott. ‘With big question marks over next year surrounding new car sales, knowing how to make more profit from your business is a topic dealers want to know more about.
‘We were delighted with the variety of speakers we had on offer, and we have have received a large amount of positive feedback about the day from dealers.’
February’s issue of Car Dealer will feature a full report on the Profit Clinic speakers – so if you missed our event at Gaydon, you’ll still be able to find out the best tips on how to make more profit. Click here to subscribe to Car Dealer Club to get your copy.
